Tropical Storm Oscar is approaching the Bahamas after making landfall in Cuba, where it caused at least six deaths and significant rainfall. The storm has been noted for its small size and unexpected strength, contributing to heavy flooding and warnings of landslides in affected areas of Cuba. Oscar is the 15th named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which is expected to be above average in activity, according to NOAA forecasts.
Tropical Storm Oscar is currently advancing towards the Bahamas following its impactful landfall in Cuba as a Category 1 hurricane. In Cuba, Oscar has tragically resulted in the fatalities of at least six individuals while simultaneously bringing significant rainfall to the island, which was already facing a severe power crisis. On Tuesday morning, Oscar was reported to be approximately 70 miles (110 kilometers) east-southeast of Long Island in the Bahamas, with reduced maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and a northeastward movement at a speed of 12 mph (19 kph), as stated by the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Oscar is anticipated to bring up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain to parts of the southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. A tropical storm warning has been issued for the southeastern Bahamas. Remarkably, the storm holds the record for being the smallest documented hurricane, characterized by a wind field measuring only about 6 miles (10 kilometers) across. It was unexpectedly powerful, making landfall in Grand Inagua Island in the Bahamas on Saturday, following a second strike in eastern Cuba late Sunday before making an abrupt retreat back towards the Bahamas. Michael Lowry, a specialist in hurricanes and storm surges, remarked, “It is not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” noting that forecasting models had not predicted Oscar’s transformation into a hurricane. The storm unleashed over 15 inches (38 centimeters) of rain in certain regions of eastern Cuba, leading to warnings of severe flooding and potential landslides, with the six reported casualties occurring in Guantánamo. This weather event emerges at a time when Cuba grapples with the aftermath of a massive blackout, which had incited minor protests and prompted government officials to issue stern warnings against civil unrest. As the 15th named storm and the 10th hurricane of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, Oscar’s activity aligns with predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of an above-average hurricane season linked to record-high ocean temperatures, forecasting 17 to 25 named storms and four to seven major hurricanes. In related weather developments, Tropical Storm Kristy was detected over open waters in the Pacific Ocean, situated 470 miles (755 kilometers) west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, with winds sustained at 60 mph (95 kph) and a trajectory moving west at 16 mph (26 kph), with expectations of it strengthening into a hurricane shortly.
The Atlantic hurricane season, stretching from June 1 to November 30, typically sees increased storm activity fueled by warm ocean temperatures. In 2023, the season has been characterized by a higher-than-average number of named storms, including Oscar, which demonstrates the unpredictable and often catastrophic nature of tropical storms and hurricanes. Recent trends have indicated an uptick in hurricane intensity and frequency, necessitating vigilant monitoring and community preparedness, particularly in vulnerable regions such as the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, which are prone to severe weather disruptions. Furthermore, this year’s hurricane season is heightened due to conspicuous climate variables, which experts are actively studying to enhance forecasting capabilities and improve response strategies.
In summary, Tropical Storm Oscar’s path toward the Bahamas, marked by its unexpected intensity and resultant casualties in Cuba, underscores the unpredictable nature of tropical systems and the pressing need for improved forecasting techniques. As the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season progresses, with heightened activity anticipated, vigilance remains crucial. Furthermore, related storm developments, such as Tropical Storm Kristy, illustrate the ongoing challenges faced during this volatile time of year. Historical records and analysis indicate the necessity for adequate preparation and response in the face of increasing hurricane threats, as both communities and governments work towards mitigating risks associated with such extreme weather events.
Original Source: triblive.com
